MEET THE TEAM
Each individual on The Blanchard Institute’s recovery team is extremely passionate about the work we do. Everyone brings with them their own unique set of skills and experience, and together, we form an unstoppable team that’s dedicated to helping patients and families across North Carolina, through our Charlotte and Lake Norman outpatient rehabilitation facilities.
We look forward to being a part of your recovery journey.
EXECUTIVE TEAM
Ward Blanchard
MA, MBA, CCS, LCAS
FOUNDER & CEO
Ward Blanchard, MA, MBA, CCS, LCAS Founder & CEO
Born and raised on the coast of the Outer Banks of North Carolina, Ward’s professional career sprouted from the progressive roots of Southern California nearly 15 years ago. Ward’s behavioral health career was cultivated through working in all facets of the behavioral health treatment industry. Since moving to Charlotte, NC over four years ago, Ward has become one of the most prominent mental health and Substance Use Disorder professionals in the country for his innovative work with clients and their family systems.
Ward founded Blanchard and Associates, LLC over 10 years ago as a private practice focusing on family re-structuring, family case management, and family consulting. In 2017, Ward established The Blanchard Institute, LLC, a dual diagnosis outpatient treatment center that incorporates comprehensive family focused care. Ward and his team approach treatment for behavioral health conditions through a unique family systems model that utilizes multiple evidence-based modalities in their innovative Blanchard family process.
Ward has a Master’s Degree in Psychology—Marriage and Family Therapy and an MBA in Healthcare administration. Specializing in dual diagnosis treatment, Ward obtained his advance addiction counseling education credential through California Association of Alcohol and Drug Counselors (CADC- II). Ward is also a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS) and a credentialed Clinical Supervisor (CSS).
In his career that spans across the country, Ward furthered his career while also working alongside some of the world’s most well-known behavioral health centers including The Betty Ford Center, Michael’s House Dual Diagnosis Center, The Ranch Recovery Center, Foundations Recovery Network, and Southern California’s state system. Ward’s experience includes: interventions, admissions, program design and direction, experiential therapy, long term case management, and business administration and revenue cycle management. His passion is centered on educating individuals, families, and professionals as he has presented extensively at national conferences, hospital systems, continuing medical education events, and public service events. Ward has an altruistic enthusiasm around educating the professional community about family systems, SUDs, dual diagnosis disorders, the opioid epidemic and chronic pain.
ANGELA OPALAK
DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS OPERATIONS
ANGELA OPALAK DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS OPERATIONS
Angela Opalak has over two decades of experience providing skillful leadership, direction and solutions for all aspects of healthcare practice management. Ms. Opalak was an integral part in assisting in the launch of The Blanchard Institute in 2017 as a trusted consultant with Veritable Billing Solutions, and is now here as our Director of Business Operations to provide innovative, results-driven solutions for the numerous and often changing regulations and challenging market conditions faced by today’s behavioral and healthcare providers.
Prior to joining The Blanchard Institute, Ms. Opalak served in leadership positions with a variety of healthcare organizations. Most recently, she served as Founder/CEO of Veritable Billing Services and successfully spearheaded the billing company’s start up initiatives and oversaw day-to-day operations and management. During her career, she also served in positions related to revenue integrity and growth, physician education, business operations, compliance and accreditation, corporate training and contract negotiations for private practices and physician groups, diagnostic imaging and clinical solutions providers, and billing companies. Ms. Opalak also has served as a college-level career instructor.
A much-sought after keynote speaker and lecturer, Ms. Opalak frequently presents to medical groups, hospitals and industry associations on a variety of practice management topics, with an emphasis on billing/coding and payor issues.
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT & COMMUNITY RELATIONS
Ryan Mitchiner
Director of Business Development
Ryan Mitchiner
Director of Business Development
A native of Georgia, Ryan graduated with honors from UGA in 2003 and began his career with a large architecture and planning firm in Atlanta. After struggling with alcohol addiction for more than a decade, he completed residential treatment in 2012 and then moved to Asheville, NC to continue his personal recovery at a structured continuing care program.
Ryan began working in the behavioral health field in 2013, eventually co-owning a 30 bed intensive sober-living program for young men in Asheville, NC. It was through this work that he discovered a lasting passion for helping others in early recovery. Ryan joined The Blanchard Institute team in July of 2023 as Director of Business Development and brings 10 years’ experience in Business Development/Marketing, Admissions, and sober living/continuing care to the Blanchard team. Ryan is a current board member and Treasurer of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention – North Carolina Chapter, former board member/ President of NCARR, the NC chapter of the National Association of Recovery Residences, and facilitates the NC Professional Liaison Association listserv.
Ryan lives in Charlotte, NC and takes an active role in the local and regional recovery communities. In his spare time, he enjoys cooking (and eating), working out, back-packing, biking, hiking with his dog Finn, and live music.
Judy Goodwin
CADC-I
director of COMMUNITY RELATIONS
Judy Goodwin, cadc-i COMMUNITY RELATIONS DIRECTOR
Judy Goodwin brings 24 years of knowledge and experience working as an Admissions Coordinator in the field and is well connected to the community and behavioral health industry.
She has a volunteer history working with the Union County Substance Abuse Task Force, NC MADD, Union County Public Schools and various community organizations.
Judy can often be heard telling others “this is not a job… it is a calling.” Judy is usually the first point of contact for our clients and welcomes the opportunity to help those seeking help.
CLINICAL TEAM
SAMANdA STEVENSON
LCAS, CSI, LCMHCA, NCC
Clinical Manager
SAMANDA STEVENSON, LCMHC-A, LCAS-A, NCC LAKE NORMAN CLINICAL MANAGER
Samanda has traveled extensively as a result of being a military child but has called North Carolina home for the last 12 years. After obtaining her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Mary Washington in Virginia, Samanda began a career in law enforcement. During her law enforcement career, Samanda became aware of the intersection between substance abuse, mental health, and the criminal justice system, inspiring her to pursue a career in addiction counseling.
Samanda obtained her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regent University and holds a Certificate of Substance Abuse Counseling from East Carolina University. She is a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate (LCAS), Certified Clinical Supervisor Intern (CSI), Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). In addition to her licensures, Samanda is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a particularly effective approach to treating trauma, which often presents in conjunction with substance use disorder. Samanda has a passion to educate and support both clients and their families in addressing the effects of substance use disorder on the entire family system. Samanda is also a proud Alumni of the Blanchard Institute and is excited to empower others during their recovery journey. Samanda obtained her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regent University and holds a Certificate of Substance Abuse Counseling from East Carolina University. She is a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate (LCAS-A), Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHC-A), and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). In addition to her licensures, Samanda is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a particularly effective approach to treating trauma, which often presents in conjunction with substance use disorder. Samanda has a passion to educate and support both clients and their families in addressing the effects of substance use disorder on the entire family system. Samanda is also a proud Alumni of the Blanchard Institute and is excited to empower others during their recovery journey.
JENNIFER HARRIS
CADC-I
LEAD THERAPIST
JENNIFER HARRIS, CADC-I LEAD THERAPIST
Jennifer is originally from upstate New York and joined The Blanchard Institute in December of 2020. Jennifer is currently the office administrator for the Lake Norman, NC location. She possesses an Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice from Central Piedmont Community College, NC, a Bachelor’s degree in psychology from Waldorf University, Iowa, and is currently a student at East Carolina University obtaining her Substance Abuse Counseling Certification as part of her Master’s degree in addiction counseling. Jennifer has a strong desire to help those in need and is passionate about leaving an impact on those around her. Having spent several years in law enforcement, she understands the impact of recovery and success people have once they break through the cycle of addiction.
WILLIAM DOWDLE
CADC
PROGRAM Manager
William Dowdle, CADC
Program Coordinator
Born and raised in Montgomery, AL, Will struggled to find the right path. After years in the field of substance abuse, he shifted gears in 2010, delving into the recovery side. While studying social work at Auburn University, he co-founded Auburn’s Collegiate Recovery Community, setting the stage for his role in treating substance use and mental health disorders at The Reprieve in 2013. In 2016 he moved to Charlotte to become Program Director at Safety Net Recovery before joining the Blanchard clinical team April of 2023.
Will has found hope, direction and purpose through his own recovery journey and the lives of those he has been fortunate enough to help along the way. His belief in a well-rounded life is evident in his pursuits from rock climbing and mountain biking to winning two Hurling National Championships.
Josh Zummo
MS, LCMHC
Lead THERAPIST
Josh Zummo, MS, LCMHC Primary Therapist
Josh received a Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, with a specialization in Crisis and Trauma, from Walden University. He strongly believes that therapy should be non-judgmental, person centered, empowering, and goal orientated. Josh is passionate about building a strong working relationship and views it as the foundation to move forward as therapist and client.
Josh has worked with adults and adolescents in a variety of different settings including inpatient, outpatient, residential and in private practice. As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), he is dedicated to working collaboratively with those he serves. Building personal growth during difficult times is truly possible with a trusting relationship between therapist and client.
Ivy Gray
MBA-HCM, LCSW-A, LCAS-A
PRIMARY THERAPIST
Ivy Gray is from Statesville, North Carolina and graduated from Winston Salem State University in 2002 with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology/Social Welfare. She has a master’s degree in business administration/Health Care Management from the University of Phoenix in Charlotte. Ivy is currently pursuing a master’s in social work at UNCC. Ivy has been working in the mental health field for the past 21 years in various settings and has a vast amount of experience and passion for working with adults and children.
Xaria Hudson
LCSW-A, LCAS-A,
Primary Therapist
Xaria is from Goldsboro, North Carolina and moved to Charlotte in 2017. She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte with a bachelor’s degree in Social Work and is currently working towards her Master’s in Social Work at Walden University.
Xaria is passionate about working in the mental health field, particularly working with, and advocating for, individuals with the duo-diagnosis disorders. For this to happen she believes it is important to work closely with the entire family system.
Jamaal Othiossinir
MSW, LCSW-A
PRIMARY THERAPIST
JAMAAL OTHIOSSINIR, MSW, LCSW-A PRIMARY THERAPIST
Jamaal is a native of New York City, NY, by way of Greensboro NC. Jamaal recently transitioned to the Blanchard Institute after working in private practice in Greensboro as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate for the past 2 years. Jamaal specializes in working with individuals, families, and couples struggling with mental health, crisis and substance use issues. Jamaal is compassionate and believes that all clients served will be treated with dignity and respect regardless of their circumstance. Jamaal graduated from North Carolina A&T University in Greensboro, NC in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in Social Work. He graduated from Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte NC with a master’s degree in Social Work.
ELIZABETH RATAJCZAK
LCSW-A, LMSW
PRIMARY THERAPIST
Elizabeth (Liz) grew up in Charlotte, NC, and has since lived in Asheville, Nashville, and Atlanta! As a person who has personally experienced addiction, Liz advocates for anyone who has experienced substance abuse and expresses interest in recovery. After becoming sober in 2020, she chose to work in this field to help others who struggle with her same ailments, graduating from Belmont University with a Bachelor of Social Work and a Master of Social Work from Columbia University.
Recovery is an ongoing process, and she hopes to help as many people recover from substance abuse and mental health problems.
Brittany Bolden
LMFT-A, LCAS-A, CADC-I, NCC
MULTI-FAMILY GROUP THERAPIST
Brittany Bolden, LMFT-A, LCAS-A, CADC-I, NCC MULTI-FAMILY GROUP THERAPIST
Brittany Bolden was raised in South Florida and moved to North Carolina to attend college at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she obtained her Bachelor’s Degrees in Elementary Education and Psychology. In 2001, she moved to Charlotte full-time, where she has been settled ever since.
Brittany is currently working on her master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Capella University.
She works as a certified postpartum doula with DONA when not assisting at the Blanchard Institute during her graduate level internship. Brittany is currently working on her certification to become a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC), which she hopes to complete by 2020.
Corrie Thomas
MS, RD, LD/N
Nutritionist
Corrie Thomas, MS, RD, CSO, LD/N Nutritionist
Corrie earned her Master’s of Science in Dietetics and Nutrition from Eastern Michigan University. She has worked in the field of substance abuse & recovery since 2012.
As a child of an alcoholic, Corrie has seen first hand the importance of nutrition as a key component to recovery. While working with clients in recovery she focuses on stabilizing blood sugar, the importance of hydration, gut health, healthy sleep habits, body movement, natural remedies to help with anxiety, and creating positive emotional eating habits. She enjoys working with clients and simplifying nutrition for their individual needs.
Johnny “Chicago” Marks
NCIP, NCRC II, CADC-I
RECOVERY CONTRACTOR
Johnny “Chicago” started as a Community Outreach Coordinator for Destin Recovery Center in Destin, Florida in 2014. As Safety Net Recovery’s North Carolina Director of Operations from August 2017 -2020, Johnny became an immediate friend and collaborator with The Blanchard Institute. Although his “official” start date at TBI was in 2021, Johnny has been supporting the TBI Team on several levels since 2017.
Since his move to North Carolina, he has become a Certified Interventionist Professional (CIP) and a Nationally Certified Recovery Coach Level II (NCRC-II).
As TBI’s Recovery Connector and in long-term recovery himself, Johnny embodies this title; whether starting and running Sunday’s popular We are Not Saints AA meeting or helping clients and loved ones connect to other 12-Step support groups in the area and around the country, Johnny is instrumental in inspiring and helping clients and families start and continue their recovery journey.
Liz Derby
C-IAYT, ERYT-500, ACE Certified Personal Trainer & Health Coach
Spiritual Care Contractor
SPIRITUAL CARE CONTRACTOR
Liz has been working in the wellness industry for over 30 years. Upon graduating from Tulane University with a degree in Anthropology, she became certified as a personal trainer and was soon offered the position as Fitness Director at a prestigious tennis club in New Orleans. She has worked with all levels of fitness from beginner to professional athlete. Liz has always had a holistic approach to health, honoring not just the body but the mind and spirit as well. Liz provides a safe and compassionate environment to facilitate healing.
In 2012 Liz began studying yoga. Instead of using yoga simply as a way to supplement her knowledge in fitness, yoga became a way of life. Practicing the tools of yoga supported her own mental health journey and in 2017, Liz became a certified Yoga Therapist, specializing in Yoga for Mental Health. She implements her knowledge as a personal trainer, health coach, meditation teacher and yoga therapist to guide people on their own path of mental health.
Liz grew up in Baltimore, but most of her family lives in New Orleans, so she makes a point of visiting them at least once a year. When not at work, you can usually find her in her garden, hiking in the mountains or spending precious time with her friends and family.
CASEY TRUE
CADC-I
Extended Care & Alumni Services Manager
Casey was born and raised in the Charlotte area and joined The Blanchard Institute team in 2021.
Through her personal experience in finding recovery, she found her calling in helping others do the same. In 2018, Casey began working in Behavioral Healthcare in Southern California where she was responsible for operating recovery residences for women. In 2021, Casey returned home to the Carolinas with the hopes of continuing to be a part of providing the tools, education, and support individuals need to recover. As someone who firmly believes in the possibility of human transformation, Casey was ecstatic to find The Blanchard Institute, and a team of people who operate with the same beliefs.
KEYONTE EASTER
MA PASTORAL COUNSELING, CADC-I
Counselor
Keyonte Easter is a Charlotte native and has lived in the area since graduating from East Carolina University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a minor in Sports Studies. He is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Gardner-Webb University. Keyonte is committed to advocating for and serving those who are on their journey towards a life of wellness and fulfillment.
SARA PATTERSON
BS, CADC-I
COUNSELOR
Sara Patterson is from Charlotte, North Carolina and graduated from Appalachian State University in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in Public Health. She is currently working towards being a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC-I).
Sara has a passion for working in the mental health field, specifically advocating for individuals struggling with SUDs and mental health disorders and their families.
Brooks Alexander
Recovery Connector
Bo is a Charlotte, NC native. After finding sobriety in 2019, he began working in the field of recovery in 2022. His passion for this field stems from witnessing the unbelievable change someone goes through when embracing sobriety. He is a graduate of Myers Park High School, class of 2017 and briefly attended The Citadel.
Beyond his work, Bo’s interests include hunting and fishing. He also enjoys watching historical documentaries across various time periods and would one day like to consider himself an amateur historian.
Harold “hal” Blackwell
Recovery Connector
RECOVERY CONNECTOR
Hal was born and raised in Union, South Carolina and graduated from the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor of Science in Finance. He authored the bestselling book, “Secrets of Skim,” has appeared on national media outlets and lobbied Congress as a recognized wealth management industry expert. Since his retirement, Hal has advocated for the individual rights of those in underserved communities suffering from substance abuse disorders. Also, as a committed Christian, he is passionate about educating other believers who perceive treatment protocols for substance abuse as unbiblical.
Hal carries a 5 handicap and plays far too much golf. His other hobbies include reading, writing but not arithmetic. In his spare time, he studies philosophy, paints poorly and attempts to sculp with clay and wooden mediums. Despite his educational pedigree, mysteriously Hal is an ardent, unapologetic Clemson Tiger fan.
NOAH LEISE
Recovery Connector
Noah is from Minneapolis, MN but has naturalized himself as a Charlottean over the past twelve years. As a Blanchard alum, he was excited to join the team in August for the debut of Austin’s House after gathering experience at Carolina Center for Recovery as a behavioral health tech.
Currently a student at Central Piedmont Community College, Noah brings experience from a year in sober living during his recovery. He is devoted to bringing his experiences to others at Austin’s House.”
Kendra Levieux
Recovery Connector
A devout believer in the power of prayer, Kendra has seen an amazing transformation from active illness to sustained remission from the disease of Substance Use Disorder throughout her life.
Raised in a military household, and as a middle child, Kendra learned at a young age how to adapt and grow through life experiences. Having been blessed to be married to her soulmate for 36 years and raising two amazing children, she now finds herself in a different season of life. Wearing many hats over the years, currently her favorite one is “Nana”. Coming to Charlotte in 2022 as an identified patient at The Blanchard Institute and a resident of Bettie’s House Sober Living Community, she possesses a unique, in-depth perspective of Substance Use Disorder and Recovery. She has 25+ years’ experience in the medical field as a Paramedic and Surgical Scrub Technician. She has a passion for serving others especially through her skills as a professional chef. Preparing meals and serving others can best describe Kendra’s love language. An avid University of Kentucky super-fan, she has deep roots in the south from Kentucky to Georgia where her family resides. The Blanchard Institute has provided unconditional love, friendship and support which makes continued sobriety possible…one day at a time. “It’s okay not to be OK.”
Colleen London-Link, BA
Recovery Connector
Colleen has a broad range of expertise in education, business, insurance, and the healthcare industry. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Dance Education and Business. Her love of education has guided and played a role in developing so many lives throughout the years. She has an extensive background in healthcare which helps support individuals in recovery. She is working towards being a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC-I). She advocates for individuals struggling with SUDs and mental health disorders and their families. In her free time, she enjoys reading, gardening and spending time with her dog, Lily.
LUTICIA MCKNIGHT
BA, CPSS
RECOVERY CONNECTOR
Luticia She has over 20 years of experience working with substance use disorder and mental health patients. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Human Services, specializing in substance abuse and is a Certified Peer Support Specialist and a Community Health Worker-I. Luticia is in long-term recovery and has been clean and sober for over 20 years.
Her proudest achievement is returning to school at the age of fifty-four. She has a passion for helping people who are trying to live a better life without the use of alcohol and drug abuse. Her goal is to help those who are still suffering to be more productive in society again.
PEYTON WATTS
Recovery Connector
Peyton is native to Charlotte and a Blanchard Institute alumna. Working with women in recovery and pursuing both a Masters in Psychology and becoming a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC-I) are her passions.
MEDICAL TEAM
MARY URBAN
MSN, PMHNP-BC, APRN
MEDICAL DIRECTOR
MARY URBAN, MSN, PMHNP-BC, APRN MEDICAL DIRECTOR
Raised in the foothills of Arizona, Mary survived temperature shock when she moved to Western Pennsylvania, before setting in North Carolina in the 1990s with her husband and children. Mary has always enjoyed helping and caring for others. With a passion for learning and problem solving, Mary serves our patients using an empathetic and client-focused approach to allow for the highest level of care. Mary is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in the treatment of substance abuse, trauma, ADHD and anxiety, and mood disorders. Mary provides detailed psychiatric assessments and diagnoses, as well as evidence-based interventions and treatment options that focus on the individual needs of each client.
AMY PHELPS
AAMA-CMA
MEDICAL OFFICE MANAGER
AMY PHELPS, AAMA-CMA Medical Office Manager
Amy is a lifelong Charlottean, having attended Charlotte Christian all 12 years of school and raising her family here. Nursing and caring for patients and those in need have been “her calling’ ever since she was a little girl. After attending Central Piedmont Community College and Liberty University, she joined the medical profession as a medical assistant in the OB/GYN and Internal Medicine disciplines, before progressing into medical office management. She is a speaker at adoption conferences related to her experiences as an adopted child and has hosted wellness fairs at local universities.
As a mother of two young adult children who have struggled with addiction, she has experienced both the impacts of addiction on the identified patient and their families, as well as the hope that comes on the road to recovery. It was the compassion and completeness of care shown to her children while in treatment at The Blanchard Institute that drew her to the field of mental health and recovery. A hands-on leader, Amy’s 25+ years in the medical field and related life experiences have galvanized her passion for providing focused and quality care while leading her team to execute at the highest level of support and professionalism.
Amy is a self-professed animal lover with 2 dogs and 3 cats, and enjoys traveling to all the fun cities, as well as relaxing at the beach.
VALERIE MORRISON, RN
NURSE
VALERIE MORRISON, RN NURSE
Valerie has always had a passion for the medical field. In 2005, after working as a medical office assistant for 8 years, she decided to pursue her degree in nursing. Valerie attended Fayetteville State University Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and upon completion of her degree in nursing, she quickly developed a passion for behavioral health. Valerie has worked for multiple providers in the mental health/substance use arena.
With great skills, Valerie comes to The Blanchard Institute to provide the highest level of compassion and hope for every person she encounters. She is currently working on her CARN certification and will be entering a master’s level nursing program in 2023.
In her free time, Valerie enjoys traveling, volunteering on mission trips to South Africa, and spending time with her family.
MIKA RHODES
CLIENT SERVICES COORDINATOR
MIKA RHODES Client Services Coordinator
Mika has lived in Fort Mill, SC for over 15 years. She was born in Ohio and before moving to the Carolinas, she spent years soaking up the sun in Los Angeles, CA.
Beginning each day in prayer and devotion, Mika’s innate nature steers toward advocacy and peacemaker. As a single parent to an amazing autistic son, she knows the difference one interaction can make in a person’s day—in their lives. As the Office Administrator and first point of contact, her goal is to remain grounded and be that safe landing place as our clients take those brave first steps toward a new way of living/being.
With an associates in business and two additional years of working toward her bachelor’s in psychology, Mika is excited to be part of the Blanchard Institute family and honored to continue her professional journey and personal mission—to see others be their most powerful, resourceful, whole, and complete selves.
In her spare time, you can find Mika—reading, watching a movie, exercising, being of service, or spending time with family and friends laughing!
mICHAEL tRUE
CADC-I
Withdrawal Management Coordinator
Michael True, CADC-I Admissions Coordinator
Michael was raised in the Carolinas and personally found recovery in 2018 after battling his own substance use disorder since he was a young adult. After joining the behavioral health industry as a Benefits Specialist in 2020, he realized he wanted to be more involved in the recovery process and be part of client and family transformation and joined The Blanchard Institute in 2022.
When he is not at work you can find him giving excessive amounts of love to his two dogs, Newton and Cane, and watching the Carolina Hurricanes and Panthers.
ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM
ADMISSIONS TEAM
erica baskin
DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS
erica baskin DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Erica was born and raised in the Carolinas. Graduating from Clemson University in 2014, she received a B.S. in Bioengineering. But instead of pursing engineering roles, she was introduced to this industry and has represented various treatment centers across the country for over 6 years now. Bringing an authentic and relationship-based approach to Business Development, she is excited to continue helping others in a more local outpatient setting.
When Erica moved to Charlotte 5 years ago, Ward Blanchard was one of the first people she connected with in the community. And she has been a peer of TBI ever since, supporting events and working with the team on many cases along the way. So it feels like things have really come full circle now that she has officially joined our team!
Shelley Wood, BA
Admissions Coordinator
Shelley Wood, BA Admissions Coordinator
Shelley Wood is a North Carolina native and Charlotte resident for over 43 years. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from UNC Charlotte.
Previously in Financial Services, Shelley was excited to shift her focus back to Behavioral Health and joined The Blanchard Institute in August of 2017 as one of our Office Administrators. She then moved into the role of Admissions Coordinator.
Shelley is often the first line of contact for potential new clients, family members or referral sources, lending understanding and compassion as clients begin their search for the treatment center where they’ll begin their journey to recovery.
FINANCIAL TEAM
CHAD ROTHERT, BA
CONTROLLER
CHAD ROTHERT, BA CONTROLLER
Chad’s extensive experience comes from 25 years of working either as a member of executive management consulting or as a public accounting professional. His career has been rooted in service; helping companies in a variety of industries, small and large, private and public, as well as several that were owned by private equity. He is adept at guiding companies through complex environments with composure and a talent for converting intricate material into understandable and actionable information.
KELLY CARRIGAN
CADC-I
REVENUE CYCLE SPECIALIST
kelly carrigan REVENUE CYCLE SPECIALIST
Kelly is a proud native of Charlotte, North Carolina. She joined The Blanchard Institute in April 2021, after 13 years in the financial services industry. Kelly has found her passion and purpose in helping others to discover the possibilities of a life in recovery. As an alumna of The Blanchard Institute, she believes fully in the mission of TBI, and she has a strong desire to give back and pay it forward. Kelly is currently working towards becoming a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor and a Certified Peer Support Specialist.
EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH
Gibbs
TOur & Therapy Dog
Gibbs Therapy Dog
Gibbs was born in raised in Southern California, moved to Charlotte, North Carolina in 2014 to continue to cultivate her passion of delivering cuteness, comfort, and adorability to anyone and everyone she encounters. Gibbs was drawn into the field of substance abuse and behavioral health after her own personal recovery from a process addiction with chewing shoes and furniture.
She understands how such an addiction truly is a family disease—impacting the whole family. Gibbs is intelligent, focused, enjoys attention and being pet behind the ears. Gibbs received formal education through The Dog Knowledge Obedience School of Charlotte, NC. She graduated with spectacular mediocracy in obedience but excelled in the subjects of advanced charm, good looks, and tennis-ball catching. She loves riding horses, eating a good hot dog, listening to Dave Matthews Band, watching documentary films, and sharing global warming articles on her Facebook.